This facility and our training is designed to support the local construction community, and help spark regional economic development, said Jason Engels, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Central South Carpenters.

The Center is located at 2850 Massachusetts Avenue in Metairie, Louisiana.

The Council recently held a Grand Opening celebration and hosted more than 300 people. Central South staff welcomed community and economic development leaders, Southern District and UBC national officials, and elected officials to formally launch the Center. Guest speakers included Louisiana House of Representatives member, John Bel Edwards, who is also the leading candidate for Governor of Louisiana. UBC General President Doug McCarron also spoke, congratulating EST Engels and his Council for creating a first-class facility.

Guests also were given tours of the center, participated in hands-on demonstrations, and reviewed craft-specific mockups for skills needed immediately in the region, such as scaffolding, form work, and more.